Silver Kilo 2024 The Lion and The Eagle, Coin from United Kingdom - detailed information

Like many other mints, the Royal Mint issues bullion coins in precious metals, having much higher intrinsic value than their face value. Most of these by tradition are measured in troy ounces of fractions thereof, but the mint also introduced metric coins measuring one kilogram of pure metal (they are actually fractionally heavier as a whole, to account for the small amount of other metal in the alloy).

The 1 kg silver coins are denominated as Five Hundred Pounds (£500), although their intrinsic (bullion) value is much higher than their face value. The coins vary in design depending on the occasion (they are "one-year" types usually issued in parallel with smaller denominations with the same reverse designs).

The coins are legal tender but are not intended for circulation. They are targeted at bullion investors or collectors who appreciate the special editions as pieces of art.

This coin is part of a series designed by John M. Mercanti, who was the 12th Chief Engraver of the United States Mint from 1991 until his retirement in late 2010.

The Royal Mint says about the series:
"Potent symbols of courage, strength and freedom, the British lion and the American eagle characterise the spirit of each nation. Richly historic and instantly recognisable, together they represent the shared values and enduring relationship between two countries that have traditionally stood shoulder to shoulder."

The design was first issued in 2023 in proof grade, and was re-issued in 2024 with a "reverse frosted" proof finish - mirror polished designs on frosted background. The 2024 issue also features a privy mark on the reverse.